Skate legends Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song's Almost skateboards brand is officially no longer in business.
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Although Daewon Song left to pursue a new brand with Torey Pudwill, the Almost Skate brand is still part of Song's legacy that he helped build with the freestyle Godfather.
In a poignant goodbye post, Skateboarding veteran Luis Cruz bids adieu to Almost Skateboards, a brand he has been associated with since its inception in 2003.
Having skated and worked for notable companies like World Industries and Dwindle since the early '90s, Cruz's departure marks the end of an era driven by a profound disconnect between the brand's ethos and its new corporate ownership.
The skateboarding stalwart dedicated half of his life to Almost Skateboards - which highlights the struggles faced under the ownership of corporate greed that failed to grasp the essence of skateboarding culture.
The lamentable scenario mirrors the fate of Enjoi Skateboards, another casualty under the same corporate umbrella.
According to Cruz, the core issue revolves around broken promises and the emergence of "I Owe You" situations, leaving riders, vendors, and artists in limbo, awaiting payments that never materialize.
Cruz's dedication to ensuring fair compensation for those involved in the skateboarding community ultimately led to his departure, as the corporate entity chose to part ways with him.
Cruz hints at a more intricate narrative behind the scenes in his farewell message, expressing gratitude to the founders and legends Rodney Mullen and Daewon Song for entrusting him with their brainchild, Almost Skateboards.
He underscores their support throughout the years, acknowledging their pivotal role in the brand's legacy.
As the skateboarding community mourns the demise of Almost Skateboards, Cruz's departure sheds light on the challenges faced when the spirit of a brand clashes with the bottom-line mentality of corporate ownership.
The fate of iconic skateboard brands hangs in the balance as they navigate the delicate balance between cultural authenticity and corporate interests.
